Introduction

Keto Chocolate Tres Leches Cake is a delicious twist on the traditional Latin American dessert. This low-carb version uses almond and coconut flours, combined with a rich chocolate flavor, to create a decadent cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Soaking the cake in a creamy tres leches mixture enhances its moistness, while a fluffy whipped topping adds the perfect finishing touch. With this comprehensive recipe, you’ll enjoy a delightful dessert that fits within your ketogenic lifestyle.

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2 cups almond flour: A low-carb alternative that provides a moist texture.
  • 1/4 cup coconut flour: Adds fiber and complements the almond flour.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: For rich chocolate flavor.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides moisture and richness.
  • 1 cup granulated keto-friendly sweetener: Erythritol or stevia works well.
  • 4 large eggs: For structure and richness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk: For moisture.

For the Tres Leches Mixture

  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk: Provides creaminess and flavor.
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk: A light, dairy-free option.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream: For richness.
  • 1/4 cup granulated keto-friendly sweetener: Adjust sweetness to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.

For the Whipped Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream: For a rich topping.
  • 2 tablespoons granulated keto-friendly sweetener: Sweetens the topping.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Cooking spray or butter for greasing
  • Fork or skewer for poking holes
  • Refrigerator for chilling

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking.
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or softened butter.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  1. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly mixed. This will help distribute the leavening agents evenly.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sweetener

  1. Cream Together: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated keto-friendly sweetener using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  3. Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  2. Add Almond Milk: Stir in the unsweetened almond milk until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

  1. Pour the Batter: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Cool Slightly: Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly in the baking dish.

Step 6: Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture

  1. Combine the Ingredients: While the cake is baking, whisk together the coconut milk, almond milk, heavy cream, granulated keto sweetener, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until well blended.

Step 7: Soak the Cake

  1. Poke Holes: While the cake is still warm, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake. This allows the tres leches mixture to soak in.
  2. Pour the Mixture: Carefully pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, ensuring it soaks in well. Allow the cake to absorb the liquid for about 30 minutes.

Step 8: Make the Whipped Topping

  1. Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream, granulated keto sweetener, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. This may take a few minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

  1. Spread the Topping: Once the cake has soaked and cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake.
  2. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2-3 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish (Optional): Before serving, you can garnish the cake with a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder or grated dark chocolate for added decoration.
  2. Serve: Slice and enjoy your Keto Chocolate Tres Leches Cake as a delightful dessert that’s both satisfying and low in carbs.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Assuming 12 Servings)

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 22 g
    • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3 g
    • Net Carbs: 5 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • SmartPoints: 5 points per serving on the WW program.

Tips for Success

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh almond milk and heavy cream for the best flavor and texture.
  2. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the tres leches mixture and whipped topping, adjusting the sweetener to your preference.
  3. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake can be stored for up to 5 days.
  4. Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and improve overnight.

Variations

  • Coconut Topping: Add unsweetened shredded coconut to the whipped topping for extra texture and flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips: Fold in sugar-free chocolate chips into the cake batter for added decadence.
  • Nutty Flavor: Substitute some almond flour with finely ground hazelnuts or walnuts for a different nutty flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

  • Coffee Pairing: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee for a rich treat.
  • Berry Addition: Serve with fresh berries for a fruity contrast to the chocolate.
  • Ice Cream Side: Pair with a scoop of low-carb vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Conclusion

Keto Chocolate Tres Leches Cake is a luxurious dessert that provides the rich, satisfying flavors of traditional tres leches while adhering to your low-carb lifestyle. This recipe is perfect for celebrations or simply as a special treat at home. By following these detailed instructions, you’ll create a cake that is not only delicious but also healthy, allowing you to indulge without guilt. Enjoy each bite of this creamy, chocolatey delight!